<p>Does anyone have experience with a spinal fusion? I am considering an operation that would fuse several thoracic and cervical vertebrae, but I’m very concerned about the pain and risks, as well as the effect on the stability of the rest of my backbone.
I’d love to hear about any outcomes.</p>
<p>I was fused with instrumentation from T9-L4 10 years ago. would be glad to elaborate, pm me if you want.</p>
<p>D1 had a double fusions on her lumbar spine due to spondylolithesis. She was only 19 at the time and was in very good shape which I think helped a lot. They went through both the front and back and the operation lasted 5 hours and she spent 5 days in the hosptial. She spent 4 weeks on the coach and stopped taking her pain medications about 10 days after surgery (she didn’t like the way they made her feel). She returned to college (80 miles away) after 4 weeks and within about 3 months she was doing very well. Now it is almost 2 years and she can do absolutely anything that she wants.</p>
<p>I am considering a cervical fusion after 6 weeks of intractable arm pain/numbness/weakness which has not responded to conservative treatment. It’s been an off and on again problem for about 3 years.</p>
<p>Any feedback on the front approach cervical fusion surgery would be appreciated.</p>